Connect with Psychodynamic therapy in San Diego, CA

Quality care comes first at Rula

We regularly review providers to ensure quality

50+ providers
A headshot image of Katherine Dickerson

Katherine Dickerson

Recognized for high quality patient care

LMFT
•
1+ years

Licensed Marriage and Family Therapists (LMFTs), like Katherine Dickerson, are mental health professionals trained in family systems who can diagnose and treat mental health issues and substance misuse with psychotherapy and counseling.

Katherine has a Master's in Counseling (MC) in Educational Counseling from National University.

California
Specialties
Anxiety
Behavioral Issues
Depression
Domestic Violence
Panic Attacks
Style
Responsive
Approachable
Supportive

Working in the mental health field for the past twenty years I have experience working with all ages of clients and experiences. My focus in working with you as my client will be to make long lasting changes in your personal, social, and emotional parts of your life. I am passionate about the work I do and really enjoy helping my clients.

Available virtually

A headshot image of Joan Salat

Joan Salat

Many new patients continue care with this provider

LCSW
•
42+ years

Licensed Clinical Social Workers (LCSWs), like Joan Salat, are social workers trained to diagnose and treat mental health issues and substance misuse with psychotherapy and counseling.

Joan has a Master of Social Work (MSW) from University of Utah School of Medicine.

San Diego, CA
Specialties
Chronic Illness
Grief
Infidelity
Relationship Issues
Sex Therapy
Style
Responsive
Attuned
Empowering

Are you just going through the motions of life instead of thriving with connection, purpose, and meaning? Let me partner with you to become more present to yourself and others, and move towards creating a fulfilling life that makes you feel alive again. We will clear the obstacles in your way so you can be true to your authentic self.

Available virtually and in person

A headshot image of Aron Pederson

Aron Pederson

Recognized for high quality patient care

LMFT
•
8+ years

Licensed Marriage and Family Therapists (LMFTs), like Aron Pederson, are mental health professionals trained in family systems who can diagnose and treat mental health issues and substance misuse with psychotherapy and counseling.

Aron has a Master of Arts (MA) in Marital and Family Therapy from Bethel University San Diego (2018.

California
Specialties
Anxiety
Grief
Men's Issues
Stress
Trauma and PTSD
Style
Insightful
Attuned
Collaborative

Feeling stuck, overwhelmed, or can't shake a self-defeating pattern? I want to help.

Available virtually

A headshot image of Sabrina McKenzie

Sabrina McKenzie

Many new patients continue care with this provider

LCSW
•
4+ years

Licensed Clinical Social Workers (LCSWs), like Sabrina McKenzie, are social workers trained to diagnose and treat mental health issues and substance misuse with psychotherapy and counseling.

Sabrina has a Master of Social Work (MSW) from The University of Michigan.

San Diego, CA
Specialties
Behavioral Issues
Child Abuse or Neglect
Grief
Relationship Issues
Trauma and PTSD
Style
Responsive
Warm
Curious

It's cool that you're here, and I'm excited for us to possibly work together. I am personable, honest, and curious. I work hard to understand what you're looking for and to make sure our sessions feel meaningful and worthwhile to you.

Available virtually and in person

A headshot image of Jennifer Phelps

Jennifer Phelps

Recognized for high quality patient care

LMFT
•
7+ years

Licensed Marriage and Family Therapists (LMFTs), like Jennifer Phelps, are mental health professionals trained in family systems who can diagnose and treat mental health issues and substance misuse with psychotherapy and counseling.

Jennifer has a Master of Arts (MA) in Marital and Family Therapy with Art Therapy from Loyola Marymount University.

California
Specialties
Anxiety
Depression
Gender Identity
LGBTQIA+
Style
Exploratory
Approachable
Curious

I utilize a person-centered approach where clients feel empowered to explore their experiences through art therapy.

Available virtually

A headshot image of Ramona Esquer

Ramona Esquer

Recognized for high quality patient care

LMFT

Licensed Marriage and Family Therapists (LMFTs), like Ramona Esquer, are mental health professionals trained in family systems who can diagnose and treat mental health issues and substance misuse with psychotherapy and counseling.

Ramona has a Master of Science (MS) in Marriage and Family Therapy from University Of Phoenix.

San Diego, CA
Specialties
Anger Management
Anxiety
Bipolar Disorder
Depression
Grief
Style
Insightful
Gentle
Supportive

My goal is to offer a supportive, nonjudgemental empathetic environment where you can express yourself, reflect, and gain insight into taking steps toward your person growth.

Available virtually

A headshot image of Sarah Chavez

Sarah Chavez

LPCC
•
3+ years

Licensed Professional Clinical Counselors (LPCCs), like Sarah Chavez, are mental health professionals trained to diagnose and treat mental health issues and substance misuse with psychotherapy and counseling.

Sarah has a Masters in Counseling (MC) in Mental Health Clinical Counseling from Capella University.

San Diego, CA
Specialties
Cultural Stress
Grief
Life Transitions
Stress
Trauma and PTSD
Style
Exploratory
Approachable
Collaborative

Have you been looking for a space where you can feel genuinely seen and understood? I believe meaningful change happens through a strong therapeutic relationship built on trust, safety, and connection. My approach is warm, culturally responsive, and centered on meeting you where you are.

Available virtually

A headshot image of Damon Karson

Damon Karson

Many new patients continue care with this provider

LMFT
•
2+ years

Licensed Marriage and Family Therapists (LMFTs), like Damon Karson, are mental health professionals trained in family systems who can diagnose and treat mental health issues and substance misuse with psychotherapy and counseling.

Damon has a Master of Arts Marriage and Family Therapy from National University.

San Diego, CA
Specialties
Anxiety
Depression
Life Transitions
Panic Attacks
Relationship Issues
Style
Insightful
Approachable
Collaborative

Therapy doesn't always have to be so serious! I believe that every story is unique and there is no such thing as a "one size fits all" therapy. I love bearing witness to the slow unfolding of understanding that comes with closer examination of the human experience.

Available virtually

A headshot image of Araseli Hernandez

Araseli Hernandez

Recognized for high quality patient care

LCSW
•
5+ years

Licensed Clinical Social Workers (LCSWs), like Araseli Hernandez, are social workers trained to diagnose and treat mental health issues and substance misuse with psychotherapy and counseling.

Araseli has a Master of Social Work (MSW) from California State University of San Marcos.

San Diego, CA
Specialties
Anxiety
Depression
Grief
Life Transitions
Relationship Issues
Style
Exploratory
Gentle
Collaborative

I'm bilingual in English and Spanish, and I have experience working with children, adolescents, and adults. I create a warm and safe space where clients can learn, process, and heal.

Available virtually

A headshot image of Michelle Brown

Michelle Brown

Many new patients continue care with this provider

LMFT
•
10+ years

Licensed Marriage and Family Therapists (LMFTs), like Michelle Brown, are mental health professionals trained in family systems who can diagnose and treat mental health issues and substance misuse with psychotherapy and counseling.

Michelle has a Master of Science (MS) in Counseling Psychology, Marriage and Family Therapy from California Lutheran University.

San Diego, CA
Specialties
Anxiety
Depression
Domestic Violence
Trauma and PTSD
Style
Insightful
Gentle
Collaborative

I provide bilingual therapy in English and Spanish to youth and adults. I help clients impacted by complex trauma, domestic violence, physical and sexual abuse, gang-related trauma, immigration experiences, and acute mental disorders.

“Michelle is very personable and knows how to communicate with me. She validates me when I need it and is also able to allow me to reflect on myself and my actions. I enjoy talking with her very much. I recommended her to a friend of mine, and she also enjoys Michelle very much.”

Available virtually

A headshot image of Geoffrey Griffith

Geoffrey Griffith

LMFT
•
4+ years

Licensed Marriage and Family Therapists (LMFTs), like Geoffrey Griffith, are mental health professionals trained in family systems who can diagnose and treat mental health issues and substance misuse with psychotherapy and counseling.

Geoffrey has a Master in Counseling (MC) from Bethel University.

San Diego, CA
Specialties
Anxiety
Depression
Grief
Life Transitions
Trauma and PTSD
Style
Exploratory
Attuned
Collaborative

The thought of therapy can be scary for some, but I am here to help you find and use tools that work best for you. I believe clients are the experts of their own lives and have the ability to achieve their goals. I work with populations including youth, adults, couples, and families. I am glad to listen and provide a safe and supportive space.

Available virtually

A headshot image of P K Phillips

P K Phillips

Recognized for high quality patient care

LMFT
•
8+ years

Licensed Marriage and Family Therapists (LMFTs), like P K Phillips, are mental health professionals trained in family systems who can diagnose and treat mental health issues and substance misuse with psychotherapy and counseling.

P K has a Master of Science (MS) in Management of Library and Information Science from University of Southern California and a Masters of Arts (MA) in Marriage and Family Therapy from Loyola Marymount University.

San Diego, CA
Specialties
Anxiety
Depression
Family Conflict
LGBTQIA+
Older Adult
Style
Exploratory
Gentle
Collaborative

As a Licensed Marriage Family Therapist, I work collaboratively with individuals, youth, families, and couples on their therapeutic, relational, and personal goals. I bring an eclectic, humanistic approach to supporting clients through life's challenges.

Available virtually

A headshot image of Courtney Hedges

Courtney Hedges

Recognized for high quality patient care

LMFT
•
11+ years

Licensed Marriage and Family Therapists (LMFTs), like Courtney Hedges, are mental health professionals trained in family systems who can diagnose and treat mental health issues and substance misuse with psychotherapy and counseling.

All Rula providers are licensed and hold a master’s or doctorate degree required for practice.

San Diego, CA
Specialties
Parenting
Pregnancy, Prenatal, Postpartum
Relationship Issues
Sex Therapy
Women's Issues
Style
Responsive
Warm
Empowering

I'm passionate about empowering you to connect with your natural abilities to heal. You will engage in an active role in creating a deeper, more connected, and fulfilling life, one worth living every single moment.

“Courtney is phenomenal. I feel like I consistently have someone in my corner and supports me. She is very open-minded, thinks carefully about her responses and is a wonderful human being. I am grateful to have her!”

Available virtually

A headshot image of Faith Reeves-Austin

Faith Reeves-Austin

Many new patients continue care with this provider

LPCC
•
5+ years

Licensed Professional Clinical Counselors (LPCCs), like Faith Reeves-Austin, are mental health professionals trained to diagnose and treat mental health issues and substance misuse with psychotherapy and counseling.

Faith has a Master of Science (MS) in Child Development Mental Health from San Diego State University.

San Diego, CA
Specialties
Cultural Stress
LGBTQIA+
Life Transitions
Racial Identity
Women's Issues
Style
Responsive
Attuned
Collaborative

In these unprecedented times, I am here to provide a safe and dependable space for you to decompress and navigate adversity. I support clients by empowering them to be their authentic selves, identifying tools to cope with everyday stressors, and addressing symptoms of systemic oppression contributing to the mental health epidemic in our country.

Available virtually

A headshot image of Leonor Donayre

Leonor Donayre

LCSW
•
5+ years

Licensed Clinical Social Workers (LCSWs), like Leonor Donayre, are social workers trained to diagnose and treat mental health issues and substance misuse with psychotherapy and counseling.

Leonor has a Master of Social Work (MSW) from University of Washington.

San Diego, CA
Specialties
Anxiety
Depression
Relationship Issues
Self Esteem
Trauma and PTSD
Style
Insightful
Attuned
Collaborative

I'm a bilingual (English and Spanish) Licensed Clinical Social Worker. I have experience providing care across residential, inpatient, and outpatient settings, allowing me to support clients with a wide range of concerns and life experiences. I provide a warm, collaborative space where clients can safely explore their experiences, gain

Available virtually

A headshot image of Marina Walker

Marina Walker

Recognized for high quality patient care

LMFT
•
23+ years

Licensed Marriage and Family Therapists (LMFTs), like Marina Walker, are mental health professionals trained in family systems who can diagnose and treat mental health issues and substance misuse with psychotherapy and counseling.

Marina has a Master of Arts (MA) in Clinical Psychology from Antioch University.

San Diego, CA
Specialties
Life Transitions
Spirituality
Women's Issues
Style
Exploratory
Attuned
Affirming

Your journey is unique and ever unfolding. Whether you're struggling through difficult times or seeking greater joy, I offer support that's kind, wise, safe, and nurturing. Finding perspectives that bring relief, peace, and freedom—especially during transitions and suffering—is part of how we heal and thrive.

“She has been the best! Understands, listens, compassionate. Responds as needed, lifesaving🩷”

Available virtually

A headshot image of Marlayna Rattanapote

Marlayna Rattanapote

Recognized for high quality patient care

LPCC
•
4+ years

Licensed Professional Clinical Counselors (LPCCs), like Marlayna Rattanapote, are mental health professionals trained to diagnose and treat mental health issues and substance misuse with psychotherapy and counseling.

Marlayna has a Master of Science (MS) in Clinical Counseling Psychology from New Mexico Highlands University.

San Diego, CA
Specialties
Anxiety
Depression
Self Esteem
Stress
Style
Outcome-oriented
Warm
Collaborative

I offer a judgment-free, safe space to explore concerns, issues, goals, and questions. My approach is to be with you on this journey together.

“Since starting therapy only a couple months ago I already feel less anxious and stressed and have gained very useful coping skills. My quality of life has greatly improved!”

Available virtually

A headshot image of Leslie Dorticos

Leslie Dorticos

Many new patients continue care with this provider

LMFT
•
1+ years

Licensed Marriage and Family Therapists (LMFTs), like Leslie Dorticos, are mental health professionals trained in family systems who can diagnose and treat mental health issues and substance misuse with psychotherapy and counseling.

Leslie has a Master of Clinical Health Services from Turo University Worldwide.

California
Specialties
Anxiety
Depression
LGBTQIA+
Self Esteem
Trauma and PTSD
Style
Responsive
Warm
Collaborative

When circumstances or life, in general, can feel overwhelming, either from past history or current situations, getting through the day can be a struggle. I provide a safe, nonjudgmental space where your story matters.

Available virtually

A headshot image of Melissa Fitzsimmons

Melissa Fitzsimmons

LCSW
•
8+ years

Licensed Clinical Social Workers (LCSWs), like Melissa Fitzsimmons, are social workers trained to diagnose and treat mental health issues and substance misuse with psychotherapy and counseling.

All Rula providers are licensed and hold a master’s or doctorate degree required for practice.

California
Specialties
Coping Skills
Depression
Family Conflict
Parenting
Relationship Issues
Style
Directive
Approachable
Affirming

Finding the right therapist can feel overwhelming. My goal is to create a space that feels safe, genuine, and human. I’m warm, transparent, empathetic, and occasionally bring some edgy humor. You can show up exactly as you are, without judgment, while we explore what’s keeping you stuck and what you want to change.

Available virtually

A headshot image of Krystle Ramirez

Krystle Ramirez

LCSW

Licensed Clinical Social Workers (LCSWs), like Krystle Ramirez, are social workers trained to diagnose and treat mental health issues and substance misuse with psychotherapy and counseling.

Krystle has a Master of Social Work (MSW) from New York University.

California
Specialties
Codependency
Family Conflict
LGBTQIA+
School Issues
Transgender Issues
Style
Responsive
Warm
Affirming

Looking for someone who specializes in supporting LGBTQ+ individuals through identity exploration, life transitions, relationships, and mental health challenges. As both a clinician and a member of the LGBTQ+ community, I provide an affirming, inclusive space where clients can feel seen, understood, and empowered to live.

Available virtually

A headshot image of Heidi Patcheak

Heidi Patcheak

Recognized for high quality patient care

LMFT
•
3+ years

Licensed Marriage and Family Therapists (LMFTs), like Heidi Patcheak, are mental health professionals trained in family systems who can diagnose and treat mental health issues and substance misuse with psychotherapy and counseling.

Heidi has a Master of Arts (MA) in Marriage and Family Therapy from Hope International University.

Huntington Beach, CA
Specialties
Anxiety
Coping Skills
Depression
Life Transitions
Trauma and PTSD
Style
Exploratory
Candid
Curious

Many of the people I work with feel like they've outgrown old ways of coping but aren't sure what comes next—they've been the strong one, the caretaker, the achiever, yet still feel restless or stuck. In our work, I help you untangle those patterns, listen to what your emotions are really asking for, and build a steadier way forward.

Available virtually

A headshot image of Ali Ebersole

Ali Ebersole

LMFT
•
5+ years

Licensed Marriage and Family Therapists (LMFTs), like Ali Ebersole, are mental health professionals trained in family systems who can diagnose and treat mental health issues and substance misuse with psychotherapy and counseling.

Ali has a Master in Counseling from Dominican College of San Rafael.

California
Specialties
Anxiety
Eating Disorders
Relationship Issues
Self Esteem
Women's Issues
Style
Insightful
Approachable
Collaborative

I provide virtual therapy for young adults and adults who want to better understand themselves, feel less stuck, and navigate life's challenges with more confidence. My style is warm, curious, and collaborative, with room for meaningful conversations and moments of humor.

Available virtually

A headshot image of Marlene Willis-Akins

Marlene Willis-Akins

Recognized for high quality patient care

LMFT
•
11+ years

Licensed Marriage and Family Therapists (LMFTs), like Marlene Willis-Akins, are mental health professionals trained in family systems who can diagnose and treat mental health issues and substance misuse with psychotherapy and counseling.

Marlene has a Masters of Arts (MA) in Marriage and Family Therapy from Pacific Oaks College.

California
Specialties
ADHD
Anxiety
Parenting
Relationship Issues
Women's Issues
Style
Outcome-oriented
Candid
Collaborative

Life can present challenges that feel overwhelming, but you don’t have to face them alone. Whether you’re navigating anxiety, depression, ADHD, or adjusting to a new chapter in life, I’m here to provide a safe and supportive space. Together, we’ll explore your experiences, work through obstacles, and identify the next steps that feel right for you.

Available virtually

A headshot image of Ebony Watson

Ebony Watson

Recognized for high quality patient care

LCSW
•
3+ years

Licensed Clinical Social Workers (LCSWs), like Ebony Watson, are social workers trained to diagnose and treat mental health issues and substance misuse with psychotherapy and counseling.

Ebony has a Master of Social Work from University of Michigan School of Social Work.

California
Specialties
Career Counseling
Depression
Life Transitions
Women's Issues
Style
Exploratory
Attuned
Collaborative

Reaching out to therapy is a meaningful first step. I'm a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) who provides a grounded, affirming, and collaborative approach to therapy, specializing in life transitions, trauma, career stress, perfectionism, and women's issues.

Available virtually

A headshot image of Zoe Lockert

Zoe Lockert

LMFT
•
18+ years

Licensed Marriage and Family Therapists (LMFTs), like Zoe Lockert, are mental health professionals trained in family systems who can diagnose and treat mental health issues and substance misuse with psychotherapy and counseling.

Zoe has a Masters of Arts (MA) in Counseling (Marriage and Family Therapy) from Sonoma State University.

California
Specialties
Aging
Coping Skills
Depression
Grief
Infertility
Style
Exploratory
Warm
Supportive

My life’s work is focused on honoring life transitions for individuals and families. I can help people achieve their physical, mental and behavioral health goals. My approach to therapy consists of a willingness to travel into the pain as well as the healing and joy. Healing requires gentleness, loving care, and time.

Available virtually

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